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Step Up for Down Syndrome Copy
2022 Step Up for Down Syndrome
Saturday, September 10, 2022
SOMI Unified Sports & Inclusion Center
160 68th St. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548
Step Up For Down Syndrome is the largest Down syndrome awareness event in Michigan and DSAWM’s annual fundraiser. Families, friends, and the public are invited to this community celebration and walk where we come together to support our loved ones with Down syndrome. The event is held every September in Grand Rapids.
This year’s theme is “Down for Adventure” and will feature a scavenger hunt that allows the community to explore the Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, our new home and the first-of-its-kind disability-focused facility in the world! New this year, the event will include a resource fair with organizations that support or are run by the Down syndrome community, food trucks, and raffles! We’ll also be reintroducing the Step Up walk to kick off the activities. We are excited to welcome everyone–new and returning–back together for a full day of celebration, exploration, and fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Step Up for Down Syndrome?
Step Up For Down Syndrome is the largest Down syndrome awareness event in Michigan and the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan’s (DSAWM) annual fundraiser. The event kicks off DSAWM’s advocacy campaign for Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and is an opportunity for families, friends, and the public to come together and show support for our loved ones rocking an extra chromosome! The event is held every September in Grand Rapids.
Who is DSAWM?
The Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan–DSAWM for short–advocates for and provides services and programming through all stages of life to over 300 people with Down syndrome and their families across West Michigan. Our organization was founded in 1985 and while we are based in Grand Rapids, our service area covers 12 counties. We rely exclusively on donations to support our mission of creating communities that embrace Down syndrome, empower individuals, and promote opportunities for meaningful lives.
How do I register for Step Up?
Click the REGISTER button above to attend as a general participant or part of a team.
Why do I have to pay a registration fee?
Registration fees offset expenses, allowing the money raised through donations to directly fund DSAWM and allow us to continue offering free programming and services to our members. This year’s fee is only $5.
**T-shirt sales are closed. There will be a limited number of the navy shirt available for purchase at the event.
Do I have to create a team?
No, but we hope you will! While you are welcome to register solo, teams are an opportunity for our community members to come together and show support for loved ones with Down syndrome. Plus, there are several exciting prizes available for the largest team this year!
How do I create a team?
Our event registration website has changed, so if you want to create a team, be sure to read through the instructions here. Team Captains will first need to create an account, then set up their team page, then register themselves.
Do I have to collect donations?
No, but it helps! Every dollar raised funds DSAWM’s many programs and services, allowing us to support more and more people with Down syndrome. Plus, our top three fundraising teams will win an awesome prize and the top team will take home a trophy!
How do I become a sponsor?
Opportunities are available to businesses, organizations, and individuals to fit any budget. Click on our sponsorship brochure above or contact us at 616-956-3488 or info@dsawm.org to discuss opportunities.
How does my organization participate in the resource fair?
New this year, the resource fair is an opportunity for nonprofits and businesses run by people with Down syndrome to connect with our community! Click the community partner brochure above or contact us at 616-956-3488 or director@dsawm.org to learn more.
How can I volunteer?
Volunteers make this event possible! Click the VOLUNTEER button above to sign up, and we’ll contact you about available volunteer roles.
If you have other questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at 616-956-3488 or info@dsawm.org.
Team Incentives
Thank you to our sponsors & contributors!
Trailblazer Title Sponsor: King Milling Company
Community Partners
Planning Committee
Jenna Darcy
Jessica Duval
Diane Estrella
Paul Granzotto
Wesley Trimpe
Keri Weber
If you are interested in supporting people with Down syndrome in West Michigan by sponsoring an event, joining an event committee, or hosting a fundraiser, please contact DSAWM at 616-956-3488 or director@dsawm.org.
Step Up for Down Syndrome
MORE INFO TBA
Step Up is our annual family-friendly celebration open to all children and adults with Down syndrome, their families, friends, and thousands of local supporters. In addition to being Michigan’s largest Down syndrome awareness event, Step Up is also DSAWM’s largest fundraiser and supports 40% of our annual budget. As a direct result of event sponsorships, team fundraising, and generous public donations, DSAWM is able to continue providing free programming, educational resources, social gatherings, parent support networks, and financial assistance to individuals with Down syndrome and their families across West Michigan.
Event details will be announced soon!
Step Up for Down Syndrome
2023 Step Up for Down Syndrome
Saturday, September 9, 2023
3-7pm
Hudsonville Fairgrounds
5235 Park Ave., Hudsonville, MI 49426
Step Up For Down Syndrome is the largest Down syndrome awareness event in Michigan and DSAWM’s annual fundraiser. Families, friends, and the public are invited to this community celebration and walk where we come together to support our loved ones with Down syndrome. The event is held every September in Grand Rapids.
This year’s theme is “Step Right Up” and we’ll be celebrating at a new location–Hudsonville Fairgrounds! Join us for a family-friendly event with activities, prizes, food trucks, and more! We are excited to welcome everyone–new and returning–back together for a full day of celebration, amusement, and community.
Registration and fundraising will open on June 1st.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for reminder and to stay up-to-date on all the exciting details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Step Up for Down Syndrome?
Step Up For Down Syndrome is the largest Down syndrome awareness event in Michigan and the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan’s (DSAWM) annual fundraiser. The event kicks off DSAWM’s advocacy campaign for Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and is an opportunity for families, friends, and the public to come together and show support for our loved ones rocking an extra chromosome! The event is held every September in Grand Rapids.
Who is DSAWM?
The Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan–DSAWM for short–advocates for and provides services and programming through all stages of life to over 300 people with Down syndrome and their families across West Michigan. Our organization was founded in 1985 and while we are based in Grand Rapids, our service area covers 12 counties. We rely exclusively on donations to support our mission of creating communities that embrace Down syndrome, empower individuals, and promote opportunities for meaningful lives.
How do I register for Step Up?
Click the REGISTER button above to attend as a general participant or part of a team.
Why do I have to pay a registration fee?
Registration fees offset expenses, allowing the money raised through donations to directly fund DSAWM and allow us to continue offering free programming and services to our members. This year’s fee is only $5.
Do I have to create a team?
No, but we hope you will! While you are welcome to register solo, teams are an opportunity for our community members to come together and show support for loved ones with Down syndrome. Plus, there are several exciting prizes available for the largest team this year!
How do I create a team?
Our event registration website has changed, so be sure to follow the instructions on the registration page to create a team.
Do I have to collect donations?
No, but it helps! Every dollar raised funds DSAWM’s many programs and services, allowing us to support more and more people with Down syndrome. Plus, our top three fundraising teams will win an awesome prize and the top team will take home a trophy!
How do I become a sponsor?
Opportunities are available to businesses, organizations, and individuals to fit any budget. Click on our sponsorship brochure above or contact us at 616-956-3488 or info@dsawm.org to discuss opportunities.
How does my organization participate in the resource fair?
New this year, the resource fair is an opportunity for nonprofits and businesses run by people with Down syndrome to connect with our community! Click the community partner brochure above or contact us at 616-956-3488 or director@dsawm.org to learn more.
How can I volunteer?
Volunteers make this event possible! Click the VOLUNTEER button above to sign up. All volunteers get our awesome 2023 Step Up t-shirt.
If you have other questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at 616-956-3488 or info@dsawm.org.
Team Incentives
Coming soon.
Thank you to our 2022 sponsors & contributors!
Trailblazer Title Sponsor: King Milling Company
Community Partners
Planning Committee
Jenna Darcy
Jessica Duval
Diane Estrella
Paul Granzotto
Wesley Trimpe
Keri Weber
If you are interested in supporting people with Down syndrome in West Michigan by sponsoring an event, joining an event committee, or hosting a fundraiser, please contact DSAWM at 616-956-3488 or info@dsawm.org.
Step Up for Down Syndrome Raises Awareness
Attendance at DSAWM Step Up for Down Syndrome has grown over the past several years. In fact, after three consecutive years of record breaking fundraising and crowds well over 1,000 people, the event has become the largest Down syndrome awareness event in Michigan! This created some logistical problems – Step Up had grown too big for its previous location – Millennium Park. While DSAWM staff and Kent County Parks Department collaborated to address issues of gathering space, parking, electrical access, and environmental impact, the event had clearly reached capacity at the park. The Step Up for Down Syndrome Committee spent two years researching and planning to make big changes to Step Up that would allow it to continue to grow.
On Saturday, September 30th, all of that hard work paid off as 1,566 people came together for 2017 Step Up for Down Syndrome at John Ball Zoo. The largest crowd in DSAWM history enjoyed bounce houses, music, games, a puppet show, face painting, and refreshments before walking through the zoo. “It’s amazing to see West Michigan come together and show their support for friends and families with Down syndrome. I’m so excited to be a part of this community!” said Jennifer Richards DeVault, who joined DSAWM in July 2017 as Executive Director.
Step Up for Down Syndrome raised $141,340 for the programs and services provided by Michigan’s largest Down syndrome support organization – Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan. The organization is 32 years old, and this was its 21st walk. The growth in attendance and funds raised is due to community participation. Corporate sponsors donate to cover the expenses for the event, and the rest is raised through thousands of donations collected online and in the community. “Our families are the best ambassadors for Down syndrome. They show West Michigan what life with Down syndrome is like everyday and their friends, and neighbors witness the value of that. They donate because they believe in people with Down syndrome,” said Jennifer. 79 teams were created honoring individuals with Down syndrome. The three teams that raised the most money, Kru’s Crew, Kynsee’s Krew, and Jessica’s Crew won spots for Kru, Kynsee and Jessica on a Down Syndrome Awareness Month billboard. The largest team, Kynsee’s Crew, also won a private screening of The Nut Job 2 at Celebration Cinema for their entire team.
There were several reasons DSAWM chose the zoo. Besides additional space, the zoo has a central location that is accessible by mass transit, and allows out-of-towners to make a day of it by enjoying the zoo’s exhibits and activities, as well as enjoying downtown Grand Rapids celebrated restaurants, museums, and Art Prize venues. It also adds appeal to families who may not have a close connection to Down syndrome. “A major goal of Step Up for Down Syndrome is to draw in the community-at-large and introduce them to their neighbors with Down syndrome and share with them their potential and the contributions they are making in West Michigan,” said DSAWM member Meredith Lange.
Click here to view pictures of 2017 Step Up for Down Syndrome.
Building on the idea of creating a unique, entertaining event celebrating Down syndrome, this year’s DSAWM Step Up for Down Syndrome will be held at Fifth Third Ballpark on Saturday, September 22, 2018 and will have a sports theme.
Step Up for Down Syndrome Goes Wild in 2017
The 20th anniversary Step Up for Down Syndrome walk held Saturday, October 8th at Millennium Park was our highest earning walk in history! More than $150,000 was raised – far exceeding the initial goal of $125,000. This year, you set many records with 17 teams raising more than $1,000, four teams raising more than $10,000, and not one but two teams raising more than $15,000! Thank you to all of our hardworking families who shared Down syndrome with our community!
We were also joined by Lt. Governor Brian Calley, who served as Grand Marshal. Calley was selected for the honor because of his work as a strong advocate for people with special needs, including his work in insurance and special education reform and leadership on the Mental Health and Wellness Commission, the 298 Workgroup, and MI Hidden Talent Tour. Calley also presented DSAWM with a State of Michigan proclamation signed by himself and Gov. Rick Snyder, officially recognizing October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
Click here to view pictures from 2016 Step Up for Down Syndrome.
This Step Up for Down Syndrome was special for another reason – This was a wonderful way to say goodbye to Millennium Park! Mark your calendars because Step Up for Down Syndrome is going through some WILD changes in 2017! Join us as we kick off Down Syndrome Awareness Month Saturday, September 30th, 2017 at John Ball Park & Zoo! This new location has ample parking, is easily accessible by public transportation, and allows our registered walkers to enjoy the zoo after the walk. We can’t wait to see you there!
2016 Step Up Sponsors
PLATINUM
Dan Vos Construction, Jandernoa Foundation, Hobart
GOLD
Die Cad Group, King Milling Company, Spectrum Health Foundation
SILVER
B&B Truck Equipment, Bethany Christian Services Global, EPS Security, Lakewood Construction, Inc., Steel Systems, Inc.
BRONZE
D&D Building, Land & Company, Hadley, Reeve’s Plastics
IN KIND DONATIONS
Celebration Entertainment, Costco Wholesale, Engelsma’s Apple Barn, EverKept, Fifth Third River Bank Run, Glitter Booth, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Ludwick’s Bakery, SpartanNash, Trader Joe’s
Stepping Up to the Plate
Now in its 22nd year, the Step Up for Down Syndrome fundraiser and celebration has grown from only a handful of participants to the largest Down syndrome awareness event in Michigan. On Saturday, September 22nd, 1,255 walkers gathered at Fifth Third Ballpark to celebrate their loved ones with Down syndrome and support DSAWM. Together, our walkers, donors, and sponsors helped us hit a home run and raise $138,000 to fund the many programs and services that DSAWM offers our members.
Teamwork is an important part of Step Up and while we certainly all work towards the same goal, walkers are encouraged to create their own teams for some friendly fundraising competition. Leading up to the big day, incentives are offered to keep teams working towards the coveted title of Top Fundraising Team. This team receives special recognition on event day, will have their loved one with Down syndrome featured on a billboard, and takes home the Step Up trophy. DSAWM has seen some close races to the number one spot over the past few years and 2018 was no exception. After weeks bouncing between third and fourth place, Kynsee’s Krew submitted one last donation minutes before the competition closed, propelling themselves to the top of the leader board. Those familiar with Kynsee’s Krew know that this win was a big deal. Over the past few years, Kynsee’s parents Kevin and Kristi Wadkins have kicked their fundraising efforts into over-drive. We sat down to talk with Kevin about his team’s grassroots approach to fundraising and what Step Up means to his family.
When did you first participate in Step Up and why?
My family was registered to walk in 2012, but that year it was cancelled because of weather, so our first official walk was 2013. As new parents, my wife and I wanted to get involved with the DSAWM and learn how special our kiddos are. We had no idea what to expect as neither one of us had any family members with Down syndrome.
What did your first year of fundraising look like and how does that compare to this year of fundraising?
Our first couple years of fundraising were nothing compared to the past three years. The first few were basically just team registrants and a few donations from family and friends. The past three years, though, have been pretty busy. We finished in second place for fundraising in both 2016 and 2017. After that, I said I was after the number one spot. We started fundraising for this year’s event the evening of the 2017 walk. We always have a celebration after the walk and last year sold 50/50 tickets to kick-off our fundraising. I have been collecting returnables all year. We had a canvas painting party and Euchre party. We made planter boxes and birdhouses from old barnwood that was donated by friends of ours. Some of our other friends had a bake sale. We had a golf outing. The Ionia Farm Power Club donated money to us from their annual pie auction. We sold t-shirts. Friends had a family garage sale and donated a percentage of their sales to us. 2018 was very busy!
When and how did you start getting your community involved?
Over the past three years our community has been really supportive. We have had two local restaurants have Kynsee Krew fundraiser days where a percentage of their sales supports our team. Mostly it is just by word of mouth. We also have a lot of support from friends and family. Our friends get their friends involved and it turns into one big family.
Do you see a lot of familiar faces returning every year to support Kynsee’s Krew? What do you think keeps them coming back?
We do see a lot of returning supporters every year. They see how much their support means to our family and I think they see how hard we work to help support the DSAWM.
You finally won the Step Up trophy this year! What does that mean to your family?
It means so much to us. We have been so close the previous two years and we finally did it. All the hard work and dedication has finally paid off.
Most important question: Where will you display the trophy?
It is proudly displayed on a shelf at our house so everyone can see it.
What would you like new families joining the DSA to know about Step Up and the DSAWM community?
Step Up is a great way to help raise awareness and funding for the DSAWM community. To be involved and see how many people come out to support the DSAWM is amazing. There are so many different resources for new families through the DSAWM. It’s a great community to be involved and a great way to meet other families raising kids with Down syndrome. There is so much help and support from the organization and that is why we are so grateful to be a part of this great community.
Next year’s Step Up for Down Syndrome will be Saturday, September 21, 2019. We will be returning to Fifth Third Ballpark and look forward to turning it up to 11 with our theme “Rockin’ an Extra Chromosome!” We can’t wait to see you there.
Photos courtesy of Alyssa Eckel-Martin.
Occupational Therapy/Sensory Integration
Occupational Therapy/Sensory Integration
Resources listed are not endorsed by DSAWM, but are a list of options that are available. If you know of additional West Michigan resources, please let us know at director@dsawm.org.
BRAINS Grand Rapids
Comprehensive Therapy Center Grand Rapids
Family Tree Therapies Grand Rapids
Easter Seals – West Michigan Therapy Center Grand Rapids
Family Tree Therapies Grand Rapids
Generation Care Grand Haven
Horizons Developmental Resource Center Caledonia
Kid At Heart Therapy Holland
Occupational Therapy Plus, PLLC Portage
Sensational Steps Therapy Grand Haven
Michigan Parents of Children with Down Syndrome Facebook Group is an online community for parents and caregivers in Michigan who have children with Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities. The group is a great resource for those looking for recommendations for and experiences with providers across the state.
Parent Support
Parent Support Programs
DSAWM Parent Support programs are designed to support parents raising children with Down syndrome on their unique journey. For more information or to register for programs, visit the DSAWM calendar or contact DSAWM at 616-956-3488 or info@dsawm.org.
Aging With Down Syndrome
Caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome over the age of 30 are invited to this support group sponsored by DSAWM and Alzheimer’s Association. Participants share experiences and discuss the process of caring for loved ones growing older with Down syndrome. Visit the DSAWM calendar to find the next meeting.
Dads Group
DSAWM dads work to create positive change in our community by volunteering with other West Michigan organizations that provide services to DSAWM families and hosting DNO (Dads’ Night Out). Like MNO, DNO invites fathers raising children with Down syndrome to meet at local restaurants and share experience and support. DSAWM pays for first-time attendees (excluding alcohol). Visit the DSAWM calendar for upcoming dates or visit the Dads Facebook Page.
Member Financial Assistance
DSAWM’s Member Financial Assistance Fund is designed to provide financial support to families raising individuals with Down syndrome who need help with certain Down syndrome-related expenses. To learn more and apply, visit our Financial Assistance page.
MNO (Moms’ Night Out)
DSAWM hosts monthly MNO gatherings in three locations: Lakeshore (Grand Haven/Muskegon), Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo. Mothers raising children with Down syndrome meet at local restaurants to share experiences and support. DSAWM pays for first-time attendees meals (excluding alcohol). Visit the DSAWM calendar for upcoming dates.
New Parent Packet
DSAWM provides our New Parent Packet to parents who are welcoming a new child with Down syndrome into their family. The packet is full of helpful information about what to expect during the first few years of your child’s life, the joys and challenges associated with a Down syndrome diagnosis, and the services and support that DSAWM and other area organizations offer. To request a packet, contact us at 616-956-3488 or info@dsawm.org.
Parents For Parents Mentoring
Parents for Parents mentors are a group of “veteran” moms and dads who provide support for expectant and new parents. If you are interested in being connected to a parent mentor or becoming a mentor, contact DSAWM at 616-956-3488 or victoria@dsawm.org.
Weekly Update and DSA Press Newsletters
The Weekly Update is emailed every Thursday and shares information about our programming schedule as well as upcoming community events and opportunities. The DSA Press is our tri-annual newsletter featuring personal stories, informational articles, and news relevant to the West Michigan Down syndrome community. This more substantial newsletter is published electronically and emailed to members and community partners three times each year in the winter (February), summer (August), and fall (November). Join our mailing list to begin receiving these publications.
Workshops & Conferences
Informational workshops and conferences are periodically held to address topics relevant to parents/caregivers of, and professionals who work with, individuals with Down syndrome. Topics previously presented on have included behavior, adaptive and therapeutic devices, and potty training. Visit the DSAWM calendar to find upcoming learning opportunities. Information from past workshops and conferences can be found on our Resources page.
Aging Resources
Aging Resources
Aging individuals are invited to participate in any of DSAWM’s All Ages or Teen and Adult programs. DSAWM also offers a few select programs specifically for mid-aged and older adults, including our Aging with Down Syndrome Support Group. Resources relevant to this stage of development include transitions coordination, medical support, and financial assistance.
DSAWM Programs and Services for Aging Adults
Community Supports
Resources listed are not necessarily endorsed by DSAWM, but are a list of options that are available. If you know of additional West Michigan resources, please let us know at info@dsawm.org.